Hawthorn Berries
Hawthorn Berries
Snapshot
Hawthorn berries (Crataegus species) are nutrient‑rich fruits used traditionally to support cardiovascular health, circulation, and antioxidant defenses.
What are Hawthorn Berries?
Hawthorn berries are the small, red fruit of the hawthorn shrub, rich in flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). They have been used for centuries in herbal medicine for heart and vascular support.
Where It Comes From
Harvested from wild and cultivated hawthorn trees in temperate regions worldwide, the berries are collected in late summer to autumn, dried, and processed into powders, tinctures, or extracts standardized to key flavonoids.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Hawthorn berries supply flavonoids (hyperoside, quercetin, rutin), OPCs, and phenolic acids. These compounds work synergistically to improve endothelial function, enhance nitric oxide production, and protect against oxidative stress.
Health Benefits
Hawthorn extract supports healthy blood pressure and lipid profiles by promoting vasodilation and reducing cholesterol oxidation. It improves cardiac muscle function, circulation, and may alleviate mild cardiac discomfort. Its antioxidants also protect vascular endothelium from free‑radical damage.
Recommended Dosage
Typical doses range from 250–500 mg of standardized extract (providing 1.5–2% flavonoids) taken two to three times daily. Tincture dosages are generally 1–2 mL, three times per day.
How to Use It
Take hawthorn extract capsules or tablets with water, ideally with meals to enhance absorption. Tinctures can be mixed into water or juice and sipped throughout the day.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for individuals seeking natural support for cardiovascular function, healthy blood pressure, and circulation. It may benefit those with occasional digestive issues related to circulatory sluggishness.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Hawthorn may potentiate cardiac glycosides and blood pressure medications; monitor therapy closely if combined. Mild gastrointestinal upset or headache can occur. Consult a healthcare provider if you have heart disease or are on prescription medications.
Final Thoughts
Hawthorn berries offer a gentle yet effective botanical approach to supporting cardiovascular wellness and vascular resilience. When standardized for key flavonoids, they provide consistent, research‑backed benefits.
Scientific Studies
Pittler, M. H., Schmidt, K., & Ernst, E. (2003). Hawthorn extract for treating chronic heart failure: meta‑analysis of randomized trials. American Journal of Medicine, 114(8), 665–674.
https://doi.org/10.1016/S0002-9343(03)00140-0
Walker, A. F., et al. (2002). Hypotensive effects of hawthorn for patients with diabetes taking prescribed medications: a randomized controlled trial. British Journal of General Practice, 52(478), 9–14.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1314373/
Holubarsch, C., et al. (2008). The English trial of hawthorn extract WS 1442 in older patients with chronic heart failure: a randomized, placebo‑controlled study. International Journal of Cardiology, 126(3), 347–354.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijcard.2007.05.037